H&R PSA M16A1 (New 2023) First Impressions - Harrington & Richardson/Palmetto State Armory

Published on March 9, 2023
Duration: 15:19

This review provides first impressions of the new H&R M16A1 rifle from Palmetto State Armory. The reviewer details numerous A1-specific features, compares them to A2 variants, and discusses initial shooting performance. While fit and finish are praised, significant issues with zeroing the rifle and initial reliability problems are highlighted, suggesting potential first-run production challenges.

Quick Summary

The H&R M16A1 distinguishes itself from the A2 with a fully slotted 'bird cage' flash hider, a 0.625-inch barrel profile, a round slip ring, and a two-aperture rear sight. While its fit and finish are praised, the reviewer encountered initial reliability issues and a significant problem zeroing the rifle due to insufficient adjustment range in the sights.

Chapters

  1. 00:11First Impressions & Initial Shooting
  2. 00:27H&R M16A1 Production Status
  3. 00:37Key M16A1 Features Explained
  4. 00:44Flash Hider Comparison (A1 vs A2)
  5. 01:01Barrel Profile and Gas Block
  6. 01:45Handguards and Nose Cap
  7. 01:53Barrel Twist Rate and Ammo Stability
  8. 02:07Slip Ring vs. Delta Ring
  9. 02:14Gray Finish vs. Black Anodizing
  10. 02:44Machining and Magazine Release
  11. 02:53Dust Cover and Pistol Grip
  12. 03:17Lower Receiver Full Fencing
  13. 03:30Forward Assist Design
  14. 03:46Safety Selector Markings
  15. 03:59Roll Marks and Laser Engraving
  16. 04:25Bolt Hold Open Feature
  17. 04:38PSA Ownership and Manufacturing
  18. 04:53Identifying 'Blems' and Forging Flash
  19. 05:24M16A1 Rear Sight Design
  20. 05:59Front Sight Post Notches
  21. 06:05Charging Handle Type
  22. 06:19Lower Receiver Reinforcement
  23. 06:31M16A1 Butt Stock Details
  24. 06:55Butt Stock Screw and Buffer Tube Hole
  25. 07:22Trapdoor on Butt Stock
  26. 07:39Sight Upgrades on A1s
  27. 07:57What's Included in the Box
  28. 08:10Fit and Finish Impressions
  29. 08:27Upper/Lower Receiver Fit
  30. 08:53Dowel Pin Stiffness
  31. 09:05Carry Handle Optic Mount Hole
  32. 09:13Furniture Quality Concerns
  33. 09:34Initial Performance Issues
  34. 09:41Failure to Feed Examples
  35. 10:30Bolt Locking Open Oddities
  36. 11:00Reliability Improves with Use
  37. 11:21Accuracy Impressions
  38. 11:27Shooting at 25 and 100 Yards
  39. 11:47Group Size Examples
  40. 12:22Estimated Accuracy (MOA)
  41. 12:24Ammunition Used (55 Grain)
  42. 12:33Magazine Compatibility
  43. 12:40Major Issue: Inability to Zero
  44. 12:50Front Sight Post Adjustment Limits
  45. 13:22Rear Sight Windage Adjustment Limits
  46. 13:35Overall Reliability and Accuracy Assessment
  47. 13:39Potential First-Run Issues
  48. 14:00Anticipation for the Rifle
  49. 14:09Personal Connection to A1 Design
  50. 14:24Visual and Feel Impressions
  51. 14:28Rifle Weight
  52. 14:37Shooting Characteristics
  53. 14:39Front Sight Post Preference
  54. 14:54Plan to Contact PSA
  55. 15:02Final Thoughts on the Rifle

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key distinguishing features of the H&R M16A1 compared to an M16A2?

The H&R M16A1 features a 'bird cage' flash hider with full slots, a 0.625-inch barrel profile, a round slip ring, and a two-aperture rear sight. In contrast, the A2 has a bottom-sealed flash hider, a thicker barrel profile, a Delta ring, and a rear sight with one small and one large aperture.

What were the initial performance issues with the new H&R M16A1 rifle?

The reviewer experienced initial feeding failures and a peculiar bolt lock-back behavior on the follower. These issues seemed to resolve after approximately 10-12 rounds, suggesting a potential break-in period or minor manufacturing anomaly.

What significant problem did the reviewer encounter when trying to zero the H&R M16A1?

The primary issue was the inability to zero the rifle. With the front sight post bottomed out, the rifle still shot significantly low at 25 and 100 yards. Additionally, the rear sight's windage adjustment was insufficient to correct impacts to the left.

How does the fit and finish of the H&R M16A1 compare to other AR-15s?

The reviewer was highly impressed with the fit and finish, noting zero movement between the upper and lower receivers, which is often better than military-issue M16s/M4s and many civilian AR-15s. The laser engraving was also noted as sharp and well-executed.

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